Nachfolge

Nachfolge is a German noun that denotes following or succession. It derives from folgen, meaning to follow, with the prefix nach- indicating sequence after someone. In general usage it refers to the act or process of succeeding another person in a role, position, or lineage, and to the line of people who take over an office or responsibility.

Secular usage encompasses several areas. In organizations, politics and governance, Nachfolge describes succession and the planning, selection, and installation of a successor, as in Nachfolgeplanung or corporate succession. In dynastic, governmental or corporate contexts it denotes the orderly transfer of authority from one officeholder to another. In legal language the term may appear in discussions of statutory or customary transfer rights and the transfer of property, titles, or positions upon death or retirement, though Erbfolge (inheritance sequence) is also common in inheritance law.

Religious usage is widespread in Christianity. Nachfolge signifies discipleship—the act of following Jesus Christ and imitating his teachings. The concept underpins religious vocation and practice, and many orders and movements describe their way of life as a path of Nachfolge Christi, the followers’ commitment to Christ.

Linguistically, Nachfolge yields the related term Nachfolger (successor) and functions as an abstract concept for the act of following or taking over from a predecessor. The term thus spans both secular and religious spheres, reflecting the common human concern with continuity, leadership, and identity across generations.